National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation Seeks Nominees for 2025 Leadership Awards
Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Restaurants Advance Leadership Awards until June 30, with winners to be announced in August.
The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) has announced the opening of nominations for its 2025 Restaurants Advance Leadership Awards. These awards aim to recognize significant contributions and leadership within the restaurant industry. Nominations will be accepted through June 30, and the award recipients will be notified in August.
The awards are divided into several categories, each highlighting different aspects of leadership and community impact within the restaurant sector. The Inclusion Innovator Award acknowledges an individual who has effectively used cultural intelligence to enhance their operation’s team or guest experience. The Community Champion Leadership Award, sponsored by American Express, rewards restaurants that have made substantial contributions to their local communities through charitable actions and community support.
Additionally, the Thad and Alice Eure Ambassador of Hospitality Award, presented by Ecolab, is given to an individual demonstrating extraordinary achievement and leadership that enhances the industry’s stature through community service and philanthropy. The My Journey Leadership Award, sponsored by PepsiCo, recognizes an individual who has made significant personal and professional advancements in the industry and has been a mentor and leader to others.
Each winner of these awards will have a $2,500 scholarship established in their name, supporting the NRAEF’s mission to foster career opportunities and change lives within the restaurant workforce.
The NRAEF encourages individuals to nominate themselves or others and allows nominations across multiple categories. Complete nomination details are available on the NRAEF website.
This initiative is part of the NRAEF’s broader efforts to support the restaurant and foodservice industry through various educational and career development programs. These include the ProStart program for high school students, Restaurant Ready and HOPES programs for skills training and job opportunities, and scholarships for students pursuing degrees in restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality management. The NRAEF also offers accredited apprenticeship programs through the Restaurant & Hospitality Leadership Center to further professional development in the industry.
